Three-hinge arch and asteroid trusses programmed in logic

Abstract

Classical methods of structural analysis use the conditions of equilibrium and compatibility in a distinct and explicit way, offering a better insight and understanding of the behaviour of structures. Although algorithmic programming of these methods is not straightforward, because the implemented strategies are problem dependent, logic programming can be used effectively to implement classical methods of structural analysis. This can formulate the problem on a modern base from which design considerations can be tackled by using artificial intelligence methods and expert systems. It is anticipated that classical methods, more physical and conceptually clear, will provide the required information in a more flexible way. In this paper three-hinge arch and asteroid trusses are analysed on the basis of logic programming. These statically determine topologies are also important for the analysis of statically indeterminate configurations.